Manisha Koirala’s Assault Scene in Heeramandi: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Heeramandi, released on Netflix, showcases the lives of courtesans. In this TV series, a rape scene featuring Manisha Koirala has stirred conversation, with actor Jason Shah, portraying a police role, openly discussing it. Let’s explore what he said.
Jason Shah in Heeramandi
The Diamond Bazaar was released on Netflix on May 1. However, it continues to make headlines. This entire series revolves around the lives of courtesans and features several prominent actresses such as Manisha Koirala, Aditi Rao Hydari, Sonakshi Sinha, Sanjeeda Shaikh, Richa Chadha, and Sharmin Segal.
Alongside them, actors Shekhar Suman, Adhyayan Suman, Fardeen Khan, and Jason Shah are also notable. But did you know that there was a scene in this film where Manisha Koirala, playing the role of Mallika Jaan, is raped in a police station? Yes, indeed, Mallika Jaan is forced to trade her body to rescue her daughter from the clutches of the police. Jason Shah, who portrayed the character of British officer Carteret, openly discussed this scene.
What Jason Shah Said
Jason commented on this scene, stating that Mallika Jaan’s rape scene is quite relevant as it completely shatters her pride, arrogance, and character. She can go to any extent to save her daughter. He not only portrayed the strength of a mother but also felt that real power lies in the hands of the British, hence she would need to make decisions very carefully. He said,
“I think the rape scene is quite relevant because it is breaking her (Mallikajaan) character. I think she comes to terms in her own mind however she sees it. She does it for a daughter. She also realises that the power-play game still lies in the hands of the British and she has to do what it takes as she was taking the decision.”
Jason Shah continued, “This has happened quite a few times in India. Which is very sad, India has a problem with rape and all sorts of things. I hope it makes people, not want to do things but actually realise the seriousness of these issues (sic). I was born and raised in a Gujarati family and have an English mom. I have received racism from my side of the family as they looked at me as a white kid because of my skin tone and we live in a complex world. We should never go to the heights of what Cartwright did that was illegal.”
Jason Is From a Gujarati Family
Jason also talked about such incidents happening in India. He mentioned that it’s very painful and shared his personal background, being from a Gujarati family. His mother is English, which made him face many difficulties as he has seen a lot as a white child.
Jason criticized Cartaret’s actions, stating that whatever he did out of his ego and to force Mallika Jaan to kneel down was very wrong and illegal.
Experience of Working in Heeramandi
Reflecting on his experience working in Heeramandi, Jason said that it was an amazing experience for him to work in this TV series. Working with new directors, he has learned a lot. It was truly wonderful. He said working with Bollywood actresses was like a dream come true. He also mentioned that the screen time he got in Heeramandi will help him internationally, making it a good experience for him.
Apart from Heeramandi, Jason Shah has appeared in several other projects like Chandrashekhar, Jhansi Ki Rani, Barrister Babu, and Swaraj.
